It means a lot that you’re taking a moment to read this newsletter. I created it so every neighbor in the city can hear directly from me about what we are doing, why it matters, and how your voice guides the work.
It means a lot that you’re taking a moment to read this newsletter. I created it so every neighbor in the city can hear directly from me about what we are doing, why it matters, and how your voice guides the work.
In this edition, I look back on my first weeks as mayor through three lenses:
Listening, where I highlight what I’ve been hearing from Oaklanders across the city.
Learning, where I share what we’re learning as a team about the city’s most pressing challenges.
Leading, where I walk through the early steps we’re taking to deliver real progress.
Oakland is facing tough issues, but we’re making headway.
Oakland still faces serious challenges. Sideshows unsettle our streets, blight erodes neighborhood pride, and homelessness tests our conscience. We are tackling each issue with urgency and with a belief that every community deserves clean streets, safe neighborhoods, and a fair chance to thrive.
I am proud of the progress we have begun, and even prouder to be doing this work with you. Let us keep moving forward together.
But before we get into it, I want to take a moment to look back at one of the most unforgettable days of my life: Inauguration Day.
June 8, Inauguration Day.
Standing at Jack London Square, surrounded by family, friends, and neighbors, I took the oath to serve as your mayor. And I intend to meet that trust with steady work and honest results.
That day was a celebration of our city’s spirit. The Black Cultural Zone kicked things off with a beautiful and joyful gathering that brought the community together in all the right ways. And countless Oaklanders turned out for cleanups across the city in the days before. People showed up with gloves, grabbers, and heart, ready to take care of the neighborhoods we love.
The entire weekend was a proud and humbling moment. But it wasn’t the finish line. It was the start of the real work: safer neighborhoods, more affordable housing, a City Hall that actually works for you.
Thank you for that day, and for the opportunity to serve.
(You can find my plan for my first 100 days in office here)
Listening
Some of the most important work I do as mayor happens face to face, out in the community, listening to Oaklanders.
On June 12, I had the chance to do just that.
We started at Italian Colors in Montclair, where neighbors raised thoughtful questions about safety, clean streets, and how we are working to make sure every part of Oakland gets the investment it deserves. Later, at the Cypress Mandela Training Center, the conversation went even deeper. We talked about violence prevention, peaceful protest, housing, homelessness, and how to create more opportunity for our young people.
These were not just listening sessions. What I heard is helping shape how we lead. The questions, concerns, and ideas shared with me are guiding our priorities, from the city budget to public safety and community investment.
I am grateful to our hosts at Italian Colors and Cypress Mandela and to everyone who joined us. That includes Council President Kevin Jenkins, Councilmembers Ken Houston, Rowena Brown, and Janani Ramachandran, Transportation Director Josh Rowan, Police Chief Floyd Mitchell, Holly Joshi from the Department of Violence Prevention, Oakland Fire Chief Damon Covington, Economic and Workforce Development Director Ashleigh Kanat, and Workforce Development Board Executive Director Sofia Navarro.
Oaklanders are showing up with real ideas and a deep commitment to our future.
Learning
Leadership is strongest when it is informed by expertise and collaboration, so I have been soaking up information everywhere I can.
Building new partnerships
During my first week in office, we gathered leaders from eleven philanthropic foundations to explore how public and private resources can work together. Their ideas on housing, education, and job training are helping us design programs that reach farther and last longer.
Sharper public safety strategy I brought together public safety leaders to dig into data, listen to community violence-prevention experts, and learn from what’s worked in other cities. Their insights are shaping the next phase of our safety plan from increased presence in key areas to targeted violence interruption efforts.
Strengthening our small business ecosystem I met with representatives from our Business Improvement Districts and local Chambers of Commerce to understand what owners need most right now. We talked about faster permitting, cleaner corridors, and safer streets. Their on-the-ground knowledge is already shaping upcoming budget recommendations and economic initiatives.
Every conversation adds detail to the big picture of where Oakland needs to go, and every lesson learned is turning into action you will see in the months ahead.
Leading
Being mayor is about setting a clear direction, earning trust, and staying rooted in the people and places that make Oakland special. Over the past few weeks, I’ve stayed focused on pushing forward the priorities our community continues to lift up.
Showing up in Sacramento to advocate for Oakland I traveled to the Capitol to meet with our full state delegation, the Assembly Speaker, the Senate Pro Tem, key committee chairs, and leaders from the Governor’s Office. I spoke about what Oaklanders have asked for: urgent action on homelessness, stronger investments in public safety and transit, help with blight, and more support for local jobs. I came home encouraged and with new partners ready to work with us.
Launching youth jobs with Vice President Harris It was a proud moment to welcome Vice President Kamala Harris back to her hometown and stand with her as we launched the Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program, which includes paid jobs for Oakland students this summer, along with mentorship and career development. In Oakland, we’re creating real pathways for our young people, and this wouldn't be possible without community support, and generous contributions from the San Francisco Foundation.
Standing with our community in powerful moments I had the honor of speaking at Acts Full Gospel Church during the memorial for Dr. Marvin Boomer Jr., a beloved educator and role model in East Oakland. His life and legacy reminded all of us what safety truly means.
Delivering a people-first budget
I also worked with the City Council on a budget that closes a historic shortfall while protecting the services our residents count on most. Working with Council President Kevin Jenkins and many other city leaders, we prioritized cleaner streets, safer neighborhoods, stronger violence prevention, and more support for local businesses.
None of this work happens alone. Every step forward reflects the strength and spirit of Oakland.
Courtland Creek Park I was so proud to celebrate the transformation of Courtland Creek Park from what was once a dumping ground to now a vibrant space for families. Thank you to our community members, Councilmembers Noel Gallo and Rowena Brown, city staff, and to incredible partners: the Caltrans Clean California Local Grant Program, the California Department of Water Resources Urban Streams Restoration Program, and the U.S. EPA’s San Francisco Bay Water Quality Improvement Fund. This was truly a community effort.
Oakland Chamber of Commerce Gala I had a wonderful time celebrating Oakland’s business community at the Oakland Chamber of Commerce's 120th Annual Meeting. Thank you to Oakland Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Barbara Leslie, who is also co-chair of my Mayoral Transition Committee, and the entire Oakland Chamber of Commerce team for hosting such a joyful evening that honored the businesses and leaders who keep our city moving forward.
Bay Area-Silicon Valley Summit, presented by Sutter Health
It was a productive session with regional leaders focused on housing, transit, and economic recovery. Thank you to San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan and San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie for the thoughtful discussion, which was moderated by my mayoral transition team member Carrie Owen Plietz, Regional President for Kaiser Permanente Northern California. Oakland’s voice was heard loud and clear.
Oakland: "A Day of Service"
Before I was sworn in, I joined Oakland City Council members and dozens of incredible volunteers from across the city to clean up our neighborhoods. Thank you to everyone who grabbed gloves and bags that day. Your pride and love for Oakland is what makes this city special.
Transition Team Meeting I kicked off our first Transition Team meeting with Co-Chairs Keith Brown and Barbara Leslie, and was grateful for the insights of budget expert Ben Rosenfield, our legal advisor Barbara Parker and our transition director Danny Wan. Together, we launched working groups focused on public safety, homelessness, good governance, and more. Thank you to each committee member for your leadership and commitment.
Vice President Harris Visit It was such a joy to welcome Vice President Kamala Harris back home. We had the chance to speak with Oakland youth about their futures and what leadership means. Thank you to everyone who helped make her visit meaningful and memorable.
Pride Flag Raising We raised the Pride flag over City Hall as a reminder that Oakland is a city where everyone belongs. Thank you to our LGBTQ+ community and allies who joined us. Your courage and visibility continue to move us forward.
Fruitvale Vigil
Our hearts were with Los Angeles as communities there faced federal immigration raids. The Bay Area stood united, responding with compassion, strength, and action. Immigrant communities have always been a vital part of our city. I grew up in an immigrant neighborhood, so this fight is also personal. Thank you to the leaders, officers, and neighbors who joined us at The Bay Stands with LA Vigil. Your courage showed the best of Oakland.
“No Kings” March in Chinatown
I was proud to speak at Wilma Chan Park, standing with Chinatown neighbors and small business owners. Thank you to the community organizers, cultural leaders, and local merchants who made this moment powerful.
Foundation Roundtable In my first week, I met with eleven foundation leaders to explore how we can partner on youth development, public safety, and economic growth. Thank you to every funder who joined us and pledged to support Oakland’s future.
Bay Area Latine Regional Convening
The Unity Council proudly hosted the Bay Area Latine Regional Convening at Juntos Fruitvale. It was a powerful gathering dedicated to advancing equity and economic inclusion for Latin communities across the region. The event brought together community leaders, elected officials, philanthropic partners, and advocates, including Unity Council founder Arabella Martinez, CEO Chris Iglesias, plus Julian Castro and Fred Blackwell.
Community Day of Service This photo was from a busy day that was full of heart. I joined AAPI Heritage Month celebrations, dove into budget workshops, met with community leaders at the Oakland Community Defender Block Party, and honored lives and healing at the Mothers of the Movement event. Thank you to every resident and partner who made the day so meaningful.
Department Leadership Summit I brought together leaders from eight key departments, including Fire, Housing, and Public Works, to break down silos and focus on results. Thank you to every director who came ready to collaborate and serve Oakland better.
Sacramento Advocacy Trip I had a full day of meetings, including with Speaker Robert Rivas and other state leaders to push for Oakland’s top priorities, from homelessness and public safety to transit and economic growth. We are building strong partnerships to help Oakland thrive.
I'm not doing this work alone. Meet my team!
Miya Saika Chen, Chief of Staff
Miya is a seasoned lawyer and policy expert who knows how to bring people together and get results. She leads with purpose and makes sure City Hall works for everyone.
Justin Phillips, Communications Director Justin spent the better part of two decades as a journalist telling the truth about power and community. Now he is making sure the Mayor’s Office communicates with clarity, honesty, and respect for the people of Oakland.
Erica Astrella, Director of Data and Technology Transformation Erica is focused on using data to improve how government works. She knows how to untangle complex systems and build tools that actually help people.
Rev. Damita Davis-Howard, Public Safety Director Rev. Damita is deeply rooted in Oakland and brings both compassion and experience to the city’s public safety work. She was previously the director of Oakland's Ceasefire Program and is focused on real solutions that build trust and save lives.
LaNiece Jones, Director of Community Engagement LaNiece is a trusted connector who makes sure the Mayor’s Office stays in close touch with Oaklanders. She builds bridges between City Hall and the neighborhoods it serves.
Cesar Macias, Special Assistant, Community Relations and State and Federal Affairs Cesar brings strong policy instincts and a deep knowledge of government. He helps make sure Oakland’s voice is heard in Sacramento, in Washington, and here at home.
Liz Valdez, Executive Assistant to the Mayor Liz keeps the Mayor’s schedule and priorities moving with care and precision. She brings a calm, steady presence to a fast-paced office.
Brittany Garza, Administrative and Operations Coordinator Brittany is the one who keeps everything organized behind the scenes. She manages the day-to-day work of the office and makes sure nothing slips through the cracks.
Mary Olsen, Receptionist Mary is the first person visitors meet at City Hall. Her warmth, knowledge, and commitment to public service help make this office welcoming to all.
Visraant Iyer,Director, Mayor's Office of Innovation
As part of the Bloomberg American Sustainable Cities program‑supported I‑team, Visraant leads efforts to improve city services through data, design, and collaboration across departments.
Patricia Price, Civic Designer, Mayor's Office of Innovation Patricia, as part of the Bloomberg American Sustainable Cities program‑supported I‑team, brings creativity and deep community insight to designing more sustainable, inclusive, and people-centered solutions for Oakland.
Lindsay Moore, Data Analyst Manager, Mayor's Office of Innovation Lindsay, as part of the Bloomberg American Sustainable Cities program‑supported I‑team, focuses on data strategy and analysis, turning complex information into actionable insights that help improve city services and support community-driven solutions.
One last note before you go: I have a new Instagram that can be found here:
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